Music On Festival 2027 – Amsterdam, Netherlands

Overview

Music On Festival 2027 is Marco Carola’s signature open-air techno and house festival, returning to Amsterdam for its annual two-day spring edition. Founded by Marco Carola, the festival has built a strong reputation within the global tech-house scene as an event that is purely about the music.

The festival takes place at Meerpark, Amsterdam, a large green park in the east of Amsterdam that provides a spacious, open-air environment for high-energy performances. It is widely regarded as the unofficial start to the summer festival season in Amsterdam, bringing together thousands of electronic music fans for two days of groove-driven sounds.

Music On Festival is the first and only festival brought to you by Marco Carola’s record label, and it reflects his personal curation philosophy: extended sets, quality sound, and a lineup selected for groove rather than hype. The event combines a daytime open-air festival with Music On By Night afterparties, offering a full weekend experience that runs from midday until late night.

What Makes This Event Special

Founded by Marco Carola: Unlike many festivals booked by agencies, Music On Festival is created and curated by Marco Carola himself. The lineup reflects his personal taste and long-standing relationships in the techno and house world. Marco Carola performs across both days, often playing extended sets that anchor the entire festival.

Meerpark Location: The festival will set camp at the green Meerpark, situated in the east of Amsterdam, the perfect location to enjoy quality music. The park offers an arena-like stage setup, wide open spaces, and excellent sound, combined with easy access from the city center via shuttle and public transport.

Groove-Driven Identity: The programme reflects the festival’s core identity, focusing on groove-driven tech-house and techno sounds. It is not about aggressive mainstage EDM, but about rolling, percussive, and soulful house and techno that keeps crowds dancing for hours.

Day and Night Format: In addition to the main festival, Music On By Night afterparties take place at Hemkade 48 in Zaandam, running from 22:00 to 06:00 across both nights. This dual format allows attendees to enjoy open-air daytime vibes and then continue at an industrial indoor venue at night.

International Community: The Amsterdam based Music On Festival became an almost overnight success when its premiere edition united fashion addicts with a love for quality techno music. The balearic experience was made complete by the arena-like stage and the amazing weather that has stayed with the festival since, attracting a stylish, international crowd from across Europe.

Lineup / Featured Artists

Music On Festival 2027 features Marco Carola performing across both days, alongside a wide selection of international artists. The lineup is curated by Carola himself, featuring top-notch talent selected for two days and nights of grooves and beats.

Core Family and Residents: Marco Carola headlines both days, often with extended solo sets and special back-to-back performances. Long-time Music On family members regularly include Paco Osuna, Loco Dice, Jamie Jones, Apollonia, Stacey Pullen, Leon, and Neverdogs.

Tech-House and House Headliners: Based on recent editions, expect artists such as Davide Squillace, Ilario Alicante, Vintage Culture, Joey Daniel, Manda Moor, Loco Dice, Luciano, Franky Rizardo, Wade, Ameme, Dennis Cruz, East End Dubs, Mason Collective, and Marco Faraone.

New Generation and Breakthrough: The festival consistently recruits high-caliber emerging talent including Max and Luke Dean, Alisha, Josh Baker, Ale de Tuglie, Archie Hamilton, Calvin Clarke, Chelina Manuhutu, Cole Knight, Da Vid, Joëlla Jackson, Maqossa, Miguelle & Tons, Rayzir, Rossi., and more.

By Night Specials: While the main festival grounds host the daytime program, the Music On By Night events offer exclusive back-to-backs such as Marco Carola b2b Dennis Cruz, East End Dubs b2b special guests, and extended sets from Mason Collective and Franky Rizardo.

The full 2027 lineup will be announced in waves via the official website at https://www.musiconfestival.nl/ and social channels.

Event Experience

Open-Air Daytime Festival: The event offers an open-air environment combined with high-energy performances. The experience runs from 12:00 to 23:00 on Saturday and from 13:00 to 23:00 on Sunday in typical editions, with two to three stages featuring distinct sounds – from deep house and minimal to peak-time techno.

Quality Production: Music On is known for high-end production for a boutique festival: Funktion-One or similar sound systems, large LED and lighting rigs, and a focus on sound quality over excessive visuals. The atmosphere is Balearic, with open skies, green surroundings, and a dance floor that stays packed from early afternoon.

Crowd and Vibe: The festival attracts a mature, dance-focused crowd. The event is strictly 18+, which contributes to a knowledgeable audience that comes for the music. There are no gimmicks – It’s all about the music.

Food, Drinks and Services: Meerpark offers a range of food trucks, craft beer bars, and cocktail bars. The site includes chill-out areas, merchandise stalls, and shaded zones. Reusable cup systems and waste separation are standard.

Seamless Day-to-Night Transition: Many attendees combine the daytime festival with the night program. Shuttle buses run from Amsterdam Amstel Station to the festival site, and then onward to Hemkade 48 for the afterparties, offering a convenient travel option for the full weekend.

Date & Schedule

Event Dates

Music On Festival 2027 takes place on May 1 and May 2, 2027.

This is the official two-day weekend edition at Meerpark, Amsterdam. The festival marks the start of Amsterdam’s outdoor festival season.

Daily Schedule Structure

Saturday: Doors typically open at 12:00 and music runs until 23:00 at Meerpark. After that, Music On By Night afterparties at Hemkade 48 run from 22:00 to 06:00.

Sunday: Doors typically open at 13:00 and music runs until 23:00 at Meerpark. The second night of Music On By Night afterparties runs from 22:00 to 06:00 at Hemkade 48.

By Night: While the main festival grounds remain focused on daytime, the night events ensure continuous music for those who want to continue dancing.

Full timetables with stage-by-stage set times are published closer to the event via the official website and festival app.

Visiting this event? Don’t miss out on these amazing activities and local experiences while you’re here.

Location & Venue

Music On Festival takes place at Meerpark, Amsterdam, Netherlands. The official venue address is Meerpark, Middenmeerpad, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, 1098 TZ, Netherlands, also listed as Radioweg 1098, Amsterdam.

Meerpark: A large green park situated in the east of Amsterdam, near the Watergraafsmeer district. It offers wide open lawns, mature trees, and ample space for multiple stages while remaining within city limits.

Stage Layout: In previous editions, the festival has featured two main outdoor stages plus smaller hosted stages, all within walking distance. The arena-like stage provides clear sightlines across the park.

Hemkade 48: The official night venue for Music On By Night is Hemkade 48 in Zaandam, an industrial warehouse venue just north of Amsterdam, known for its raw, underground atmosphere and late-night licensing until 06:00.

Accessibility: Meerpark is accessible by public transport, bike, and shuttle. The site is flat and accessible for wheelchairs, with accessible viewing platforms and toilets.

Event History

The first ever Music On Festival set to take place in Amsterdam was announced as a world premiere open-air festival from Marco Carola. The festival set camp at the green Meerpark, with two stages and nine acts, headlined by Marco Carola alongside Loco Dice, The Martinez Brothers, Apollonia, Stacey Pullen, Leon, Neverdogs and Dutch talents Benny Rodrigues and Joey Daniel.

After the fantastic editions of the initial years, the festival quickly became a staple of Amsterdam’s spring calendar. Subsequent editions moved between Meerpark and Havenpark Amsterdam, adapting to city regulations while maintaining the same musical identity.

The Amsterdam based Music On Festival became an almost overnight success when its premier edition united fashion addicts with a love for quality techno music. Over the years, it has hosted Apollonia, Jamie Jones, Danny Tenaglia, Marco Faraone, Paco Osuna, Richy Ahmed, tINI, wAFF, Solardo, Archie Hamilton, Benny Rodrigues, Hector Couto, Lauren Lane, Jesse Calosso, and many more.

In recent years, the festival has faced occasional regulatory challenges, with authorities scrutinizing safety plans, which led to last-minute changes where daytime festivities at Meerpark were adjusted while Music On By Night events at Hemkade 48 proceeded as planned. Despite these challenges, the brand has remained strong, with aftermovies and international coverage reinforcing its status as Marco Carola’s flagship festival.

Getting to the Event

Shuttle Buses: The event encourages use of public transport, and shuttle buses run from Amsterdam Amstel Station to the festival site, offering a convenient travel option. Amstel Station is a major hub with metro, train, and bus connections.

By Metro and Tram: From Amsterdam Centraal, take metro 53 or 54 to Amstel Station, then shuttle or bus to Meerpark. Tram 19 and bus 41 also serve the Watergraafsmeer area.

By Bike: Cycling is the most local way to reach Meerpark. The park is about 15 minutes by bike from the city center, with extensive bike parking at the entrance. Rental bikes are available via OV-fiets, Donkey Republic, and local shops.

By Train: Amsterdam Amstel is the closest major station. International and domestic visitors arriving at Amsterdam Centraal or Schiphol Airport can connect via metro or train to Amstel.

For By Night: Hemkade 48 in Zaandam is accessible via train to Zaandam Station, then a short bus or taxi ride, or via dedicated night shuttles from Meerpark on festival nights.

By Car: Driving is discouraged due to limited parking around Meerpark. If necessary, use P+R Zeeburg or P+R Arena with public transport onward.

Where to Stay Nearby

Near Amstel Station: Staying near Amsterdam Amstel Station offers the easiest access via shuttle. Hotels like Jaz Amsterdam, Social Hub Amsterdam City, and Hampton by Hilton Amsterdam Centre East are within walking distance of the shuttle pickup.

Amsterdam East and Watergraafsmeer: Boutique hotels and apartments in Amsterdam Oost provide short bike rides to Meerpark. Options include Hotel Arena, Volkshotel, and various Airbnb apartments.

City Center: For those combining the festival with sightseeing, staying in Centrum, Jordaan, or De Pijp provides access to restaurants and nightlife, with 20 to 30 minutes travel to Meerpark by metro or bike.

Zaandam for By Night: For attendees focusing on Music On By Night, hotels in Zaandam near Hemkade 48, such as Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Zaandam, offer convenient late-night returns.

Budget Options: Stayokay Amsterdam Zeeburg, ClinkNOORD, and Generator Amsterdam offer dorms and private rooms popular with festival travelers.

Book early, as Amsterdam’s spring festival season sees high hotel demand, especially around King’s Day and early summer weekends.

Things to Do Before or After the Event

Explore Amsterdam East: Before the festival, explore Javastraat for Surinamese and Turkish food, or visit the Tropenmuseum for global culture.

Parks and Nature: Frankendael Park and Oosterpark are near Meerpark and ideal for a relaxed morning walk or pre-festival picnic.

Museums: Combine the festival with visits to Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum, and the Anne Frank House, all accessible by bike or metro from Meerpark.

Canals and Jordaan: Take a canal cruise or explore the Jordaan district’s cafes, boutiques, and the Noordermarkt market.

NDSM Wharf: For electronic music lovers, NDSM Wharf in Amsterdam Noord offers street art, galleries, and creative spaces, plus other festivals like DGTL and Amsterdam Open Air.

Nightlife Extension: After Meerpark closes at 23:00, Amsterdam’s clubs in Rembrandtplein, Leidseplein, and Reguliersdwarsstraat continue, plus the official Music On By Night at Hemkade 48.

Restaurants & Dining Nearby

Near Meerpark and Amstel: Restaurants around Amstel Station and Javastraat offer diverse options, from Indonesian rijsttafel at Tempo Doeloe to modern Dutch at Hotel Arena’s restaurant.

Amsterdam Oost: C. van Eesterenlaan and Javastraat feature Surinamese, Turkish, and Middle Eastern eateries, plus craft beer bars like Bar Joost and Oedipus Brewing taprooms.

Food at Festival: Meerpark hosts a curated selection of food trucks offering burgers, wood-fired pizza, Asian fusion, vegan bowls, and Dutch fries, plus cocktail bars and craft beer stalls.

City Center: For a sit-down meal before the festival, areas like Utrechtsestraat, De Pijp, and Oude Pijp offer high-quality dining ranging from traditional Dutch bistros to Italian and Japanese.

Vegan and Vegetarian: Amsterdam has a strong vegan scene, with options like Vegan Junk Food Bar, Meatless District, and Dophert near central areas.

Coffee: Specialty coffee bars like Bocca, CT Coffee & Coconuts, and Lot Sixty One in Amsterdam Oost provide daytime fuel.

Ticket Information

Tickets for Music On Festival are available through official channels and trusted outlets like Skiddle and Ticketswap. Early bird tickets are typically available at a discounted price, and weekend passes typically sell out quickly.

Converted to USD, based on previous editions:

Early Bird Tickets: Starting at approximately $81 USD for a single day. Early Bird Tickets for previous editions started at 76 euros, and early bird options around 75 euros for a single day.

Regular Day Tickets: Starting at $97 USD for one day. Regular tickets in 2025 started at 90 euros for one day.

Weekend Pass – Regular: Approximately $173 USD for the full weekend. Regular weekend tickets started at 160 euros for the full weekend.

Weekend Pass – Early Bird: Approximately $130 USD to $150 USD when available, based on early allocations that sell out quickly.

Music On By Night – Separate Ticket: Approximately $30 USD to $55 USD per night, depending on lineup and advance purchase.

VIP and Special Packages: VIP tickets typically add $50 USD to $80 USD to the regular price, offering raised viewing platforms, premium toilets, and faster entry.

Prices move quickly, so securing tickets early is recommended. The event is strictly 18+ and requires valid photo ID.

Tips Before You Go

Buy Early and Use Official Channels: If you are excited about attending Music On Festival, it is important to get your tickets early, as the festival tends to sell out fast. You can purchase tickets directly from the official Music On Festival website or from trusted ticket outlets like Skiddle and Ticketswap.

Use Shuttle and Public Transport: The event is strictly 18+, and visitors are encouraged to use public transport. Shuttle buses from Amsterdam Amstel Station are the easiest way to reach Meerpark without worrying about parking.

Dress for Open-Air: The festival is open-air in a green park. Even with good weather, bring layers for evening, as temperatures can drop after sunset. Comfortable shoes are essential for dancing on grass.

Ear Protection and Sun Protection: Bring high-fidelity earplugs for loud stages and sunscreen for daytime. The open park offers limited shade, so a hat and sunglasses are useful.

Plan Day-to-Night: If you plan to attend both Meerpark and Hemkade 48, plan your energy and transport. The By Night events run until 06:00, so consider accommodation near Zaandam or use night shuttles.

Stay Hydrated and Cashless: The festival is largely cashless. Bring a debit card or credit card for bars and food, and stay hydrated, especially during peak afternoon hours.

Official Event Information

Event Title: Music On Festival 2027 – Amsterdam, Netherlands

Official Website: https://www.musiconfestival.nl/

Venue: Meerpark, Middenmeerpad, Amsterdam, 1098 TZ, Netherlands, also listed as Radioweg 1098, Amsterdam

Night Venue: Hemkade 48, Zaandam, for Music On By Night afterparties

Founder and Curator: Marco Carola

Social: Follow Music On Festival on Facebook and Instagram for lineup announcements, aftermovies, and ticket information

Age Restriction: Strictly 18+ with valid ID

Attendee Experiences

Groove-Focused Crowd: Attendees consistently describe Music On as a festival for true house and techno lovers. The crowd is dance-focused, international, and knowledgeable, with less emphasis on spectacle and more on extended grooves.

Marco Carola Extended Sets: Many fans highlight Marco Carola’s extended sets across both days as the highlight, with his ability to build a journey over several hours in an open-air setting.

Balearic Atmosphere: The Amsterdam based festival’s balearic experience is often mentioned, with amazing weather, open skies, and arena-like stages creating an Ibiza-like vibe in the heart of Amsterdam.

Day-to-Night Continuity: Visitors who attend both the Meerpark daytime and Hemkade 48 nighttime events praise the seamless transition from open-air park to industrial warehouse, allowing for a full day-to-night musical journey.

Well-Organized and Stylish: Reviews note efficient entry, quality sound, stylish crowd, and good food options, making it one of the most enjoyable boutique electronic festivals in the Netherlands.